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Atelier-Mayer For Sale?

VINTAGE shopping website Atelier-Mayer.com is likely to be sold in the near future. Its founder, Carmen Haid (pictured left), is currently in negotiations with investors in order to raise money for fresh capital. The move is part of the company's new expansion plan - which includes a concession in Harvey Nichols, due to open later this year.

"We're currently reviewing the future of Atelier-Mayer," Haid told us. "We want to expand online and to open in selected international department stores. It's an exciting time to grow and to explore new adventures."

Haid launched the online platform five years ago, which fast became known for its carefully selected luxurious vintage pieces by brands including Dior, Yves Saint Laurent and Chanel. Shoppers from 104 countries around the world buy from Atelier-Mayer, with popular regions including Brazil, Australia, the Middle East and North America. Haid won't rule out potentially opening a standalone store in the future, although her current focus is developing the website.

"It would be a shame to disrupt that strategy when it's working so well," she said. "People understand that we're injecting a new life into vintage. We offer good quality pieces and a high level of customer service. We make it personal; no one wants to be just a number online."